Montenegro Proposes Funding for Firefighting Vehicles in 2026 Budget

The Community of Municipalities of Montenegro has formally requested that the government allocate dedicated funds in the 2026 budget for the procurement of firefighting vehicles and equipment. This initiative focuses particularly on municipalities benefiting from the Egalization Fund. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, local leaders emphasized the urgent need for investment in emergency response systems as a national priority.

The cost of acquiring a modern firefighting vehicle is estimated between €300,000 and €350,000. The Community of Municipalities proposes that at least one new vehicle be allocated to each municipality that receives support from the Egalization Fund in the upcoming budget year. This initiative marks a critical first step toward systematically renewing and modernizing equipment that, in many cases, has not been replaced in over 15 years.

The Egalization Fund serves as a financial resource primarily for less developed local governments. This year, support will be provided to 25 municipalities, including Andrijevica, Bar, Berane, and Niksic, among others.

Strengthening Emergency Services

The strategy for disaster risk reduction identifies enhancing the technical capabilities of emergency services as a key objective. The Community of Municipalities expects the government to consider this request during budget planning for the upcoming year. They are prepared to collaborate with the Directorate for Protection and Rescue and the Ministry of the Interior to effectively define priorities and needs across municipalities. This collaboration aims to ensure that funds are directed toward the most vulnerable and in-need local services.

Currently, most firefighting vehicles in these municipalities are over 15 years old, frequently malfunctioning, and inadequately equipped for modern interventions. Out of a total of 246 vehicles within municipal protection and rescue services, only 145 are fully operational. This shortfall means that in critical situations, when every second counts, responders often rely on outdated and potentially unsafe equipment.

A Call for Modernization

Local emergency services serve as the backbone of Montenegro’s protection and rescue system. During this year’s fire season, firefighters were on the front lines, often working tirelessly for days with minimal respite, facing immense challenges and risks. Their bravery and dedication cannot compensate for the lack of adequate equipment and technical resources.

These local services are the first to respond to a range of emergencies, from daily fires and traffic accidents to floods and complex rescue operations. Increasingly severe weather events, including more frequent and intense storms, floods, and wildfires, necessitate well-equipped services capable of responding quickly, efficiently, and safely.

Acknowledging budgetary constraints, the Community of Municipalities asserts that investing in the protection and rescue system yields significant benefits and saves lives in the long term. They emphasize that this is not merely an expense but a strategic investment in a safer Montenegro.

In summary, the proposal to enhance firefighting capabilities through dedicated funding reflects a broader commitment to public safety and disaster preparedness in Montenegro. The initiative underscores the importance of modernizing emergency response resources to effectively tackle the challenges posed by climate change and increasing disaster risks.